Top Doctors Make A Difference

5 Tips for Finding the Right Doctor

Good health starts with having the right doctor by your side. According to studies, each year about 10% of patients consider switching physicians. Reasons for seeking out a new doctor can include relocating, changes in general health, switching insurance providers, as well as dissatisfaction with care. Whatever your reason, if you’re in the market for a new physician, here are five tips for helping you find the right doctor:

Evaluate your current physician: What do you like about your current doctor? What don’t you like? This may include things like hospital affiliations. For example, if your physician is associated with a teaching hospital, you may not like being examined by both your doctor as well as a team of residents. Perhaps your current doctor has a great bedside manner, but you question their experience with your particular condition. Make a pros and cons list to help you best determine what you really want in a doctor or specialist.

Ask for a referral: This is particularly helpful if you are looking for a specialist, such as a cardiologist or rheumatologist. Ask your current primary doctor or other specialists you currently see for referrals. How does your current doctor know this particular physician? Have other patients used them in the past? What was their experience? Your family and friends may also have a doctor they use, or have used in the past, that they can recommend, so don’t hesitate to reach out to those you know as well.

Examine their bedside manner: Having a good rapport with your doctor plays a big role in assuring you’ve found the right physician for your needs. Good bedside manner is often very personal. For example, you might prefer a doctor that is to the point and technical. Others may prefer a doctor that takes time to get to know more about their patients, including personal habits and environmental factors that could influence the course of their health.

Consider how they answer your questions: Many of us often turn to the internet for answers about a particular ailment or condition. Sometimes this can lead to unnecessary fear or misunderstandings. The right doctor will not only listen to your concerns, but should answer any questions you have about a procedure, test or medication. In other words, does your physician help you become educated about your health?

Look at the administration end: The overall functionality of a doctor’s office can play a role in your overall experience with a physician. For example, do they make it easy to make an appointment? Are same-day appointments available? If you have questions, will the staff pass them on to your doctor? Are wait times above the national average of 23 minutes? Bottom line, if you dread dealing with your doctor’s administrative end, it might be time to find a new physician.

When you have the right doctor by your side, you’ll feel confident not only in their ability to care, but your ability to feel better. If you’re seeking a new physician, start your search on www.castleconnolly.com. You’ll find listings for primary care physicians, specialists and more, all of whom have earned the title to be called a Top Doctor. Search by location, specialty or a specific doctor’s name.